How to Set Up a Closed Testing Release on Google Play Step-by-Step

Setting up a closed testing release on Google Play is a critical step for developers who want to ensure their app meets the platform’s requirements before launching it publicly. It helps identify bugs, improve user experience, and make sure the app functions well across different devices. In this guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of setting up a closed testing release on Google Play. Additionally, we’ll highlight how 20apptester.com can help you pass the closed testing phase with real testers, meeting Google’s requirements for app release.

Step 1: Sign in to Google Play Console

The first step in setting up a closed testing release is to sign in to your Google Play Console account.

Go to the Google Play Console.
Enter your developer credentials to log in.

If you don’t have a Google Play Console account yet, you’ll need to create one. You’ll need to pay a one-time registration fee and provide information about your developer profile.

Step 2: Create a New App (If You Haven’t Already)

If this is your first time releasing an app or if you haven’t created your app’s profile yet, you need to set it up.

Once logged in to your Play Console, click on the “All apps” section.
Click on the “Create App” button.
Enter the required information such as app name, language, and app category.
Choose “Closed Testing” as the track type when prompted during the setup process.

If you already have an app, skip this step and proceed to setting up the closed testing release.

Step 3: Prepare Your App for Testing

Before setting up your closed testing release, make sure your app is ready for testing. This means:

Finalizing the app’s features and making sure it’s in a stable version.
Building the APK or AAB (Android App Bundle) file for the app.

Once your app is ready for testing, upload it to Google Play Console.

Go to the “Release” section.
Select the “Testing” tab and choose “Closed Testing”.
Click on “Create Release” and upload the APK/AAB.

Step 4: Set Up Testers

Google Play requires that you have a set of testers to evaluate your app. You must provide 12 testers, which is the new requirement for closed testing in 2025.

In the “Closed Testing” section, click on “Manage Testers”.
You will be given the option to invite testers either by email addresses or through Google Groups.
- You can invite testers individually by adding their email addresses or create a Google Group where testers can join using the group’s email address.
After the testers accept your invitation, they’ll receive an email containing instructions on how to access your app for testing.

If you don’t have enough testers or want to make sure they meet Google’s 12 testers requirement, you can use 20apptester.com, a service that offers real testers who can help you pass the testing phase and meet the requirements.

Step 5: Set Up Release Details

Now it’s time to define the release version for your closed testing release.

Go to the “Release” section and select “Testing” again.
Click on “Closed Testing” and then “Create Release”.
Enter details such as:
- Release name: This could be something like “Closed Beta 1”.
- Release notes: Write clear instructions about the testing goals and what feedback you’re expecting from testers.

Be sure to provide clear instructions for your testers. Specify what parts of the app they should focus on and how they should report any issues.

Step 6: Review and Publish

Once you’ve completed the above steps, it’s time to review everything and publish your closed test release.

Double-check the testers list to ensure you have 12 testers.
Review the app version and make sure all information is correct.
Once satisfied, click “Save” and then “Review and Rollout” to initiate the closed testing release.

After publishing, your testers will receive an email notification with instructions on how to download and test the app. They will also be able to submit their feedback through the Google Play Console.

Step 7: Monitor Test Results and Feedback

As your app undergoes closed testing, it’s essential to monitor tester feedback and the performance of your app.

Go to the “Testing” section of your Google Play Console.
You’ll be able to track app usage, performance, and any bug reports from your testers.
Review the feedback, address any issues, and make necessary adjustments to your app.
Once the testing phase is over, and you’ve made improvements based on tester feedback, you can submit your app for public release.

How 20apptester.com Can Help

Setting up closed testing can sometimes be challenging, especially if you’re not able to find enough testers or don’t have the time to manage the process. That’s where 20apptester.com comes in.

We provide real testers who meet Google Play’s 12 testers requirement for closed testing, ensuring that your app can pass the testing phase quickly and successfully. Whether you need testers for functional feedback, usability testing, or device compatibility, our testers will help you meet Google’s requirements and get your app ready for release.

Conclusion

Setting up a closed testing release on Google Play is an essential step in the app development process. By following these steps and ensuring you meet Google’s 12 testers requirement, you can ensure that your app is well-tested and ready for launch. If you need help finding testers or want to streamline the process, 20apptester.com is here to assist with a team of professional testers who can help you pass Google Play’s closed testing phase efficiently.